Big Siblings

The Big Siblings program seeks to develop consistent, long-term, one-on-one relationships of friendship and trust between the volunteer and the child. It is a chance for a volunteer to have an impact on the life of a child who is in need of more positive relationships. During the two-hour a week year-long commitment the volunteer spends with a child, we hope that deep friendships are formed.

What will the volunteer do?

The volunteer serves primarily as a friend and role model to a young child from Charlottesville or Albemarle county. Big and Little Siblings spend an average of 2-3 hours per week together. Popular activities include attending UVA sporting events, watching movies, working on homework, visiting local tourist attractions, and outdoor recreation. The program demands a great deal of independence and initiative from the student volunteer as it is his/her responsibility to contact the child's parents and develop a trusting relationship with the Little Sibling.

Requirements of a volunteer

Current UVA Student (Undergraduate or Graduate)

Owns or has access to transportation in order to meet with his/her Little Sib weekly

Attend mandatory program training

Attend site-based check-in meetings throughout the semester

Complete a bi-weekly log

When?

This is a year long commitment (fall & spring semesters). Volunteers are expected to meet every week with his or her Little Sibling for 2 hours but the day and time can vary. Children in the program are referred by the guidance counselors in the school systems for a number of different reasons. The age range of the children is 5 to 12 years old.